Tooth Pain Guide

Please select from the list below the title that best reflects your pain.

Momentary sensitivity to hot or cold foods

Possible Problem

If the discomfort lasts only moments, sensitivity to hot and cold foods generally does not signal a problem. The sensitivity may be caused by a loose filling or by minimal gum recession which exposes small areas of the root surface.

What To Do

Try using toothpastes made for sensitive teeth. Brush up and down with a soft brush; brushing sideways wears away exposed root surfaces. If this is unsuccessful, see your dentist.

Sensitivity to hot or cold foods after dental treatment

Possible Problem

Dental work may inflame the pulp, inside the tooth, causing temporary sensitivity.

What To Do

Wait four to six weeks. If the pain persists or worsens, see your dentist.

Sharp pain when biting down on food

Possible Problem

There are several possible causes of this type of pain: decay, a loose filling, or a crack in the tooth. There may be damage to the pulp tissue inside the tooth.

What To Do

See a dentist for evaluation. If the problem is a cracked tooth, your dentist may send you to an endodontist. Cracked tooth pain comes from damage to the inner soft tissue of the tooth, the pulp. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in pulp-related procedures. Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal treatment, can relieve that pain.

Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods

Possible Problem

This probably means the pulp has been damaged by deep decay or physical trauma.

Brentwood Endodontics is proud to offer the highest level of care to our community. A combination of the latest treatments and technologies and a genuine passion for patient care allow us to provide our patients with optimal experiences and results in our office every day. Whether you are here for aesthetic or health reasons, we welcome you to our practice.